HDFC Bank has launched the eighth edition of its flagship Parivartan SmartUp Grants programme. This year, 15+ incubators and accelerators have been selected and onboarded to support 50–60 startups working in the social impact space. The programme will award grants of up to ₹50 lakh to selected startups, with a total programme budget of ₹20 crore.
IIT Madras, IIM Ahmedabad Ventures, Villgro, ICAR Pusa Krishi, IIT Guwahati Bionest, ASPIRE – University of Hyderabad, IIM-Calcutta Innovation Park, i-Hub Gujarat, Kerala Start-Up Mission, IFMR Catalyst AIC are among the incubators already shortlisted this year.
Over the next few months, these incubators will invite applications from social entrepreneurs across India. This initiative will culminate in a series of “Demo Day” events, showcasing startups to the Bank, investors, corporates, and media, ensuring greater visibility and opportunities for these ventures.
In line with HDFC Bank’s commitment to sustainable development and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the programme will focus on:
- AI For Social Good
- Climate Innovation
- Financial Inclusion
- Agriculture and Sustainable Rural Economy
- Education and Livelihood Enhancement
- Gender Diversity and Inclusion
Selected startups will represent diverse regions of India, including Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana and North-East region states.
“Our Parivartan SmartUp Grants programme is a testament to our commitment to fostering innovation and addressing critical societal needs. By nurturing social startups that are implementing solutions aimed at achieving SDG targets, we aim to support the creation of sustainable, inclusive solutions for communities across India,” said Kaizad Bharucha, DMD, HDFC Bank.
“Through strategic partnerships with incubators and accelerators, we are building a robust startup ecosystem. The programme empowers entrepreneurs with resources and visibility, enabling them to scale impactful solutions and contribute to India’s development journey. Through the Parivartan SmartUp Grants programme we aim to empower these innovative ventures to make a meaningful impact and create a better future for all,” said Arup Rakshit, Group Head, Treasury, HDFC Bank.
HDFC Bank Parivartan is the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of HDFC Bank. Parivartan focuses on critical areas like financial inclusion, education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability. Through innovative programmes and partnerships, Parivartan empowers communities and drives positive social change.
Since 2017, the Parivartan SmartUp Grants programme has supported over 400 start-ups through more than 120 incubators nationwide, investing significant resources to drive meaningful change.
